Carlos Baleba could make first Manchester United squad for Fulham trip

Manchester United midfielder Carlos Baleba could be included in Michael Carrick’s matchday squad for Sunday’s Premier League visit to Fulham.

The 22-year-old Cameroon international has been unavailable with an injury since joining United from Brighton & Hove Albion, but he has made enough progress in his rehabilitation to be considered for selection.

It is not yet certain whether Baleba will travel to London or play at Craven Cottage. If selected, the match would mark his first involvement in a Manchester United squad since completing his move.

Baleba was not involved in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup meeting with former club Brighton & Hove Albion, meaning he missed the opportunity to face his previous side.

Carrick said the midfielder had trained during the week and was now being gradually introduced to the group.

“We’re looking good,” Carrick told MUTV’s Mark Sullivan at Carrington.

“Everyone’s up and running, you know? Over the last week or so, pretty much everyone has played and [been] fit and we’re trying to get Carlos back in.

“Well, I say back in, actually introducing him into the group. So he’s done a bit of training this week and, hopefully, we’ll get Luke [Shaw] back in and around it this week and look forward to a strong game on the weekend.”

Carrick also highlighted Baleba’s attitude while he has worked his way back to fitness and adapted to life at his new club.

“Yeah, he’s desperate to get started. He’s bouncing around the place!” he said.

“It’s not always easy, I think, when you come into a new club and you’re not right fully in with the group, with the training.

“But he’s dealt with that ever so well, I have to say. He’s got great personality and he’s full of enthusiasm around [the place] and pushing to get back as quickly as possible. So it’s great to have him back.”

The Fulham fixture is Manchester United’s final match before a three-week break. That gap could provide Baleba with further time to build up his fitness, although Sunday offers his earliest chance to make a competitive appearance for the club if Carrick decides he is ready.

Carrick is also hopeful Luke Shaw will return to first-team contention this week, as Manchester United look to finish the period with a strong performance in London.